Promoting water safety through an open day

The Coast Watch Marine Rescue Squad's Tony Vescio, left, Duncan Pascoe, Leslie Ridgeway, Wayne Williams and Lachie Pascoe. (Ivan Kemp) 389678_02

The Coast Watch Marine Rescue Squad is welcoming the Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads communities to an informative open day.

The volunteer marine rescue organisation will host the event at 19 Guthridge Street, Ocean Grove, from 11am to 1.30pm on Sunday, February 25.

Secretary Wayne Williams said the open day would allow people to meet the squad’s volunteers and learn about the safe navigation of the Barwon River and the Bar Crossing.

“People will have the opportunity to hang around and ask questions, and we’re going to put on a bit of a sausage sizzle,” he said.

“We’re putting it on as part of our public education campaign and a promotion for water safety as our core business is doing search and rescue operations.

“We’ll have a bit of an information session about safe boating, first aid on the water, what safety gear to carry, and means of communication if you get into trouble.”

Mr Williams said the event would allow people to learn more about the safety equipment and First Aid required on the water.

“It’s aimed at anybody in the community, whether they have a lot of knowledge or none at all, and it’s a good opportunity to bring the kids along,” he said.

“We’ve invited other emergency services groups such as the police and the ambulance, because we often work in conjunction with them on a rescue.”

More information about the Coast Watch Marine Rescue Squad and how to volunteer is available at coastwatchoceangrove.com.au